1997 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2010 Porsche Cayenne is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Porsche Cayenne (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Porsche Cayenne is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Porsche Cayenne will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Porsche Cayenne (699 Nm) has 463 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2010 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2010 Porsche Cayenne has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Porsche Cayenne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2010 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1694 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2855 mm |
